Shakeem's Path to Success: Your Help Needed

His Testimony:: Today, I write this testimony as living proof of what resilience, love, and unwavering support can achieve. I begin with the words of Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” I give all glory and thanks to God, for none of this would have been possible without His grace.

My journey to this moment has been far from easy. I’ve wrestled with depression, anxiety, and a marijuana addiction that I once believed would numb the pain of past traumas. Instead, it only deepened the wounds. At times, life felt like a relentless storm, I found myself sleeping in cars, on floors, or on any couch that offered temporary shelter. People I once called friends turned away. Some looked on with shame, others with judgment, and a few with mockery as I struggled through my darkest days. The incarceration of my brother and the loss of my father added a crushing weight to the burden I already carried, leaving me feeling utterly alone.

But in that darkness, a light emerged. A high school friend and his family reached out and pulled me back from the edge. They welcomed me into their home and hearts, reminding me that I was still worthy of care, dignity, and hope.

During this time, I was blessed with a security job, where I picked up shifts at the beach, just enough to keep something in my pocket. S/O my CTC family. It was there that I met someone who would change my life forever: my friend’s sister. A remarkable woman who saw potential in me even when I couldn’t. Her kindness and belief in me gave me a second chance at life, at growth, and love. She made sure I had a roof over my head, a warm meal, and more importantly, a renewed sense of purpose.

With her unwavering support, she encouraged me to pursue more. She helped me get a stable job, enrolled me in school, and opened my eyes to possibilities I had never dared to dream. Tara J. Olíve , your love, strength, and compassion will forever be etched in my heart. I love and respect you deeply.

I also owe immense gratitude to my incredible support team at the Curriculum Center, St. Thomas/St. John District. Thank you, Dr. Symra Dee Brown —my second mother, Dr. Stephan Jürgen ,Jada Concepcion ,Brenda Fredricks, Shuri Elskoe and Ms. Corliss Smithen . Your guidance, encouragement, and dedication helped pave the path that led me here. You equipped me with the tools I needed to not only survive, but to rise.

On May 23,2025 I will stand proud as a graduate of the Class of 2025, with a heart full of hope and eyes set on a future filled with possibilities. This is not the end of my journey, it’s only the beginning.

To my fellow graduates of ACE 2025, we did it!

…… I’m reaching out as a supporter to share Shakeem Ostalaza's inspiring journey and to help raise funds for him. Shakeem has faced significant challenges, including homelessness, the loss of his father, and struggles with depression and anxiety. Despite these hardships, he is now on the verge of an incredible achievement, graduating from adult continuing education with his high school diploma.

Shakeem has dreams of attending college this fall while balancing a full-time job. However, he lacks reliable transportation to get to evening classes. Let’s come together to support Shakeem in his quest for a better future by helping to raise funds for a car. Your contributions will make a meaningful difference in his life. Thank you for your generosity and support!